Events
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Observer Editor
Annual Used Book Sale: American Association of University Women
MoreSept. 11–13. Sale of thousands of books in over 60 categories, as well as DVDs. Proceeds support academic scholarships. Preview ($20) on Friday 8–10 a.m. 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (Sun.), Washtenaw Community College (Morris Lawrence Bldg.), 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Free admission and parking. annarbor-mi.aauw.net.
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Observer Editor
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
MoreEvery Fri.–Sun. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. T. Rex (noon) describes the iconic dinosaur’s scientific and cinematic history (includes scenes of dinosaur violence); The Sky Tonight (1 & 3 p.m.) explores the current night sky, with tips on how to find the cardinal directions, constellations, and planets on your own; and Tales of the Maya Skies (2 p.m.) immerses viewers in the wonders of Mayan science, examining how Mayan scholars developed a sophisticated understanding of astronomy, architecture, and mathematics. Noon, 1, 2, & 3 p.m., 1105 North University. $9 at the gift shop. Limited capacity. (734) 764–0480, ummnh.org.
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Free
Observer Editor
The Street Art Encounter: Main Street Ann Arbor
MoreA chance to watch 16 nationally recognized street artists, including Saginaw muralist John Vasquez, paint murals, create large-scale chalk art pieces, and make other artworks throughout downtown. Also, live music TBA, participatory art-making opportunities, and more. Noon–8 p.m., all over downtown. Free. mainstreetannarbor.org/street-art-encounter.
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Observer Editor
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
MoreEvery Tues., Thurs., & Fri. All invited to play ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge (Tues. & Fri.) and a 499er game (Thurs.) for players with no more than 499 ACBL master points. 1–4 p.m. (arrive by 12:45 p.m.), 1830 Washtenaw Ave. $9 per person. If you plan to come without a partner, email [email protected].
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Community ListingFree
Purpose in the Park: The Borgen Project
MoreBurns Park, 1300 Baldwin Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, Ann Arbor
Join us for Purpose in the Park on September 11th at Burns Park to learn more about how The Borgen Project is fighting global poverty! The organization advocates for effective humanitarian and global development aid legislation at the federal level, and has a proven track record of making a real difference in the world. We’ll have snacks for sale, with all proceeds feeding directly into the organization’s advocacy efforts on the ground, but feel free to just stop by and say hi!
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Free
Observer Editor
U-M Clements Library Tour
MoreHour-long docent-led tour of the library’s early American history collection, along with a chance to view a new exhibit, Who Counts? A History of Voting in America, a display of ballot boxes, campaign pins, pre-printed party tickets, banners, and other electioneering ephemera. 4–5 p.m., 909 South University. Free, preregistration required at clements.umich.edu. (734) 649–3370.
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Free
Observer Editor
A2 Summer Streets Music Series: Main Street Area Association
MoreEvery Thurs.–Sun., June 4–Sept. 28. Local musicians TBA perform at several locations along Main St. downtown. Rain cancels. 4 p.m. Thurs.–Sun., S. Main between E. Washington & W. William. For the complete lineup, go to mainstreetannarbor.org/a2-summer-streets.
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Free
Observer Editor
Solo Dance Finals Send Off: Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club
MoreSkaters who have qualified for the national finals show off their routines. 4:15–7:05 p.m., Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Dr. at Scio Church Rd. Free. (734) 213–6768, [email protected], annarborfsc.org.
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Nightspots
Durt.: Ypsi Alehouse
MoreYpsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiLocal acoustic folk-rock singer-songwriter & guitarist. 4:30–6:30 p.m.
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Free
Observer Editor
U-M Field Hockey
MoreMatch vs. Kent State. The U-M also has home matches this month against Vermont (Sept. 6, 2 p.m.) and California (Sept. 11, 5 p.m.). 5 p.m., Ocker Field, 1202 S. State. Free. (734) 764–0247, mgoblue.com.
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Nightspots
Jeremy Kratky.: The Ranch
MoreThe Ranch 122 W. Washington, Ann ArborCountry covers by this Lansing singer-guitarist. 5 p.m.
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Community ListingFree
Friday Night Music: Lake Forest Golf Club
More3110 W. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor
Bring your friends, bring the family—or make it a date night. A fun, relaxing evening is in store for you at Lake Forest Golf Club. Live music starts at 5:00PM, with happy hour starting at 3:00PM featuring discounts on our most popular appetizers. Check out our happy hour and regular menu from Chef Blake Reetz at Ellsworthannarbor.com. Reservations encouraged, call (734) 994-8580 Ext. 2
Live music, dinner, drinks, lawn games, fire tables, cozy blankets and one of those Lake Forest sunsets.
🎹 Louis Johnson – Piano
🎻 David Stearns – Bass
🎶 Friday, September 11 | 5–8 PM📍 Lake Forest Golf Club
3110 W. Ellsworth Rd., Ann Arbor
📞 734-994-8580 ext. 2#AnnArbor #AnnArborEvents #LiveMusicAnnArbor #FridayNight #AnnArborFood #ThingsToDoInAnnArbor #LakeForestGolfClub #EllsworthFoodAndSpirits
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Free
Observer Editor
“Screen Printing Lab”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreModati Studios representatives show adults and kids age 11 & up how to screen print. Materials provided, including tote bags to print on; bring other items if desired. 5:30–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, Secret Lab. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Nightspots
Starfish.: North Star Lounge
MoreNorth Star Lounge 301 N. Fifth Ave., Ann ArborWife-and-husband duo of local harmonica player & vocalist Brigitte Knudson and Randy Tessier, a veteran local bassist-guitarist who’s also a singer-songwriter with a knack for blending genres and spicing his shows with storytelling. 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free.
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Free
Observer Editor
Asian Chip Taste Test: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAll invited to sample a variety of potato chip flavors from Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries. 6–7 p.m., AADL Downtown, lower level program rm. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Community Listing
Spider-Man Kid Rave: Starbright Entertainment LLC and Chelsea Party Loft
More1115 S Main St, Chelsea, MI 48118, Chelsea
Join Spider-Man and Spider-Gwen for an evening of dancing! Show off your best web-slinging moves as you boogie under the disco ball, take selfies with these superheroes in the 360° Video Booth, and enjoy a night of dance party fun for the whole family! You’ll be getting up close and personal with your favorite web-crawlers, so costumes are encouraged!
Pizza ($3 a slice), snacks, and beverages will be available for purchase, so dinner plans are taken care of! Ample free parking!
Kids $15
Adults $10
Under 2 freeTickets:
https://www.starbrightentertainmenta2.com/events$1 -
Nightspots
Mike Vial.: Sam Hill
MoreSam Hill 5827 Jackson Rd.Local folk-rock singer-songwriter who sings songs about love and life’s transitions.
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Observer Editor
D&D Adventurers League: Sylvan Factory
MoreEvery Fri. All invited to play the current official campaign of the popular Dungeons & Dragons tabletop role-playing game, using 5th-edition rules. Kids under 13 must have adult accompaniment. 6–10 p.m., 2459 W. Stadium. $10. Space limited, preregistration strongly recommended. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
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Free
Observer Editor
“How to Build a Robot from Scratch”: U-M Artificial Intelligence Lab/Ann Arbor District Library Friday Night AI
MoreU-M AI Lab professor Rada Mihalcea and Skyline High School robotics team students Zara Burzo and Raphael Fournier discuss how robots are designed and built. 6:30–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, 4th fl. mtg. rm. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
“9/11: Reclaiming Ground Zero”: State Theatre
MoreFilm screenings every Wed.–Sun. Tickets $11.75 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, and U.S. veterans, $9.75; Marquee Arts members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. (734) 668–8397. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Sept. 11: “9/11: Reclaiming Ground Zero” (Josh Sabey, 2026). Documentary that follows New Yorkers in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks as they use a large town hall process to decide what to do with the site of the towers. Followed by a discussion. Part of U-M Democracy Week. FREE, but preregistration required at tinyurl.com/reclaim-9-11-26. 6:30 p.m.
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Nightspots
The Invasion.: Live
MoreLive 102 S. First St., Ann ArborDetroit-area British Invasion cover quartet led by singer-guitarist David Roof.
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Community Listing
Blue Ribbon Bash: Therapeutic Riding, Inc.: Therapeutic Riding, Inc.
More3425 E. Morgan Rd., Ann Arbor
Therapeutic Riding, Inc (TRI) is an adaptive riding center in Ann Arbor where children and adults with a variety of disabilities can fulfill their dreams of riding and interacting with horses. Equestrian sports require balance, mobility, and strength, making them inaccessible to many individuals with disabilities. At TRI, we remove those barriers by providing adaptive equipment, volunteer side-walkers and horse leaders, and certified instructors who create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every participant can succeed. TRI provides opportunities that promote independence, confidence, physical strength, social connection, and a sense of accomplishment.
Each year, TRI hosts Blue Ribbon Bash, a fundraising event featuring delicious food from local food trucks, select wines from Sandhill Crane Vineyards, craft beer from Mothfire Brewery, a signature cocktail, live music, a caricature artist, silent auction items, meet and greet opportunities with the horses, adaptive demonstrations, and more. Held at TRI’s barn, the Blue Ribbon Bash is affectionately known as a “blue jean casual gala” reflecting the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere of the barn.
As a non-profit that does not receive any government funding, TRI relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and community partners to provide exceptional programs while caring for our horses, maintaining our facility, and keeping participant fees affordable.
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Observer Editor
“The Passion of the Christ”: Fathom Entertainment
More(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Sept. 10–17: “The Passion of the Christ” (Mel Gibson, 2004). Graphically violent dramatic depiction of the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus. 6:30 p.m. Cinemark only.
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Observer Editor
Magic: The Gathering (MTG): Sylvan Factory
MoreEvery Wed., Fri., & Sat. All invited to play both casual and tournament forms of the collectible card game MTG.
Wed. & Sat. (5 p.m.): “Commander.” A drop-in session of the most popular form of the game. Free.
Wed. (6 p.m.): “Pauper.” A fun and fast format for all skill levels, three rounds. $5.
Wed. (6:30 p.m.): “Standard.” Three rounds, with competitive tournament rules, prizes of store credit. $10.
Fri. (6:30 p.m.): “Friday Night Draft.” Cost and format vary. Various times, 2459 W. Stadium. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
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Pontiac Trail Blazers.: North Star Lounge
MoreNorth Star Lounge 301 N. Fifth Ave., Ann ArborLocal bluegrass quartet known for its beautiful vocal harmonies and instrumental prowess.
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Free
Observer Editor
“The Wisdom Tree”: Jewel Heart Buddhist Center
More1129 Oak Valley Dr. Concessions. Free. (734) 994–3387, jewelheart.org.
Sept. 11: “The Wisdom Tree” (Marc Forster, 2024). Mystical mystery sci-fi film about a quantum physicist struggling to deal with the aftermath of a mysterious car accident. Discussion follows. 7 p.m.
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Observer Editor
High Holidays Observance: Ann Arbor Jewish Cultural Society
MoreAll invited to this secular celebration of Rosh Hashanah, with readings, meditation, and music. Also, a free Tashlich observance (Sept. 12, 4 p.m., Gallup Park Maas Shelter) features a secular ceremony celebrating the Jewish New Year with participants encouraged to “let go of shortcomings” by tossing flower petals into the river. The Kol Nidre observance (Sept. 20, 7 p.m., JCC) includes time for reflection on the Day of Atonement while listening to haunting melodies. Yom Kippur observance (Sept. 21, 2 p.m. & 6 p.m., JCC) brings the Jewish New Year to a close with a ceremony and potluck breaking of the fast. 7 p.m., 2935 Birch Hollow. $10 (family, $25) suggested donation per observance for nonmembers; no one is turned away because of inability to pay. Registration required at jewishculturalsociety.org. [email protected].
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Observer Editor
U-M Men’s Soccer
MoreMatch vs. Indiana. The U-M also has a home match this month against Oakland (Sept. 29, 7 p.m.). 7 p.m., U-M Soccer Stadium, 2250 S. State. $9–$13 (groups of 10 or more, $3 each; kids 5 & under, free). (734) 764–0247, mgoblue.com.
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Nightspots
Tyreek McDole.: Blue LLama
MoreBlue LLama 314 S. Main, Ann ArborThis Haitian American vocalist from Central Florida with expressive soulful baritone is only the second man to ever win the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. Jazzwise calls his 2025 debut album, Open Up Your Senses, “an instant modern classic and a must-have recording for any lovers of vocal jazz.” $50.
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Nightspots
Dwight Street Troubadours.: Water Tower Distilling Co.
MoreWater Tower Distilling Co. 23 N. Washington,, YpsilantiLocal trio that plays a mix of originals and pop, rock, and soul covers.
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Nightspots
“Karaoke Night.”: Ypsi Alehouse
MoreYpsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti -
Nightspots
Brad Phillips.: JD’s Stage
MoreJD’s Stage 117 ½ S. Main, Chelsea, Michigan, United StatesNationally renowned multi-instrumental string virtuoso from Saline whose music embraces a range of genres from old-time, bluegrass, and Celtic to jazz and pop.
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Observer Editor
Annual Barn Dance: Salem Area Historical Society
MoreSquare dancing to live bluegrass, country, and some 1950s pop by the local Picks & Sticks Stringband. Cider and donuts available. Proceeds used to preserve the nearby Jarvis-Stone School and Dickerson Barn. 7–10 p.m., Three Cedars Farm, Six Mile Rd. just west of Curtis. north off North Territorial. $5 donation (SAHS members, $3) at the door only. (248) 437–6651.
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Observer Editor
“A Tribute to Queen”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
MoreSept. 11–13. An ensemble of local musicians performs songs written and originally performed by the British rock band Queen and its legendary lead singer Freddie Mercury. Featuring their hits “We Will Rock You,” the spine-tingling “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” and more. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $39–$58 in advance at theencoretheatre.org & (if available) at the door. (734) 268–6200.
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Nightspots
Rick Burgess Trio.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborJazz ensemble, named after the late jazz pianist and Earle cofounder Burgess, featuring drummer Robert Warren and a rotating roster of bassists and pianists.
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Observer Editor
Mike Green: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
MoreSept. 11 & 12. This popular “mostly clean” comic returns to town with a nervous energy that explodes into bizarre and goofy observations about jumping rope, talking sirens, bar codes, and other pointless things you never stop to think about. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $20 at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
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Observer Editor
“Echo’s Fragments” Staged Reading: Neighborhood Theatre Group
MoreSept. 11–12. Rodney M. Rice directs local actors in a staged reading of playwright A.M. Dean’s new drama about interspecies communication. Not appropriate for young audiences. Audience members have the opportunity to offer feedback. The Friday performance is followed by a reception. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), Back Office Studio, 13 N. Washington, Ypsi. $10 suggested donation in advance at ntgypsi.org & (if available) at the door.
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Observer Editor
“Code Five”: Forge Theater
MoreSept. 11–13. Brian Cox directs a drama by local playwright Marc Holland that explores the emotionally and morally complex aftermath of a mass shooting on one of its survivors. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), 3000 Packard, ste. B. $12 in advance at forgetheatercollaborative.com, & (if available) at the door. (734) 219–9434, [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
“Swift Nights Out”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
MoreSept. 11–13. All invited to view chimney swifts gathering at dusk and count them as they enter their roosts in a spectacular swirling tornado of birds. Participants choose a known roosting location and report back to WBNA organizers. Part of a national effort to monitor the migration of this bird species and learn its favorite chimneys for overnight roosting. 8 p.m. until the last swift descends into its chimney. Various locations, preregistration required at washtenawbna.org/events. Free.
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Observer Editor
Friday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
MoreEvery Fri. Performance by 11 Non-Blondes, a house team of experienced improvisers. 8–9:30 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & $18 (if available) at the door.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Hollywood to Michigan Comedy Night”: HOMES Campus
MoreStand-up comedy sets hosted by bubbly Detroit comedian Toi Toy. The lineup features West Coast–based comedian & actor Elijah Howard, former elementary school teacher Eileen Nolton, and Detroit comedian Mike Chase. 8–10 p.m., 112 Jackson Plz. Free. homescampus.com/campusevents.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Femme Feedback” Comedy Night: Bløm Mead + Cider
MoreA variety of women and trans comics try out new material with a veteran comic presiding to offer feedback. 8–10 p.m., 100 S. Fourth Ave. Free, but purchase of food & drink encouraged. (734) 548–9729, drinkblom.com/events.
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Nightspots
“Magik Ziggidy Birthday Bash.”: The Arboretum
MoreThe Arboretum 984 E. Michigan Ave., SalineWith performances by area hip-hop rappers Magik Ziggidy, Peetzu, Ron1n Sumo, Charmm, Mikejack, and others.
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Nightspots
Rainbow Girls.: Ark
MoreArk 316 S. Main, Ann ArborThis Sonoma County (CA) trio is known for combining idealistic lyrics, crack guitar work, and startling vocal harmonies. They were crowd favorites at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival back in 2020, and a Glide reviewer calls them “a gang of sweet angels punching you in the heart.” Opener: Jordan Smart, a Kentucky based folk-rock singer-songwriter. $29.